ape
ape Lexical Profile
ape Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A large primate that naturally lacks a tail, belonging to the superfamily Hominoidea, which includes gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, and gibbons.
"The researchers observed the great apes using rudimentary tools to extract termites from the mound."
An uncouth, clumsy, or unintelligent person.
"He was dismissed by the sophisticated guests as an unmannered ape who had no business being at the gala."
A person who unthinkingly imitates or mimics the actions, mannerisms, or style of another.
"She was merely an ape of the popular artist, replicating his techniques without understanding the deeper philosophy behind them."
• verb
To imitate the behavior, mannerisms, or style of someone or something, often in an absurd, unthinking, or clumsy way.
"The comedian spent weeks learning to ape the politician's unique vocal cadence and gestures to perfection."
Word Nuance & Usage
In common usage, 'ape' is frequently confused with 'monkey', but biologically, apes are distinguished by their complete lack of a tail, increased cognitive abilities, and generally larger size.
• Rhymes for ape
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English 'apa', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'aap' and German 'Affe'. The verb sense meaning 'to imitate' dates from the mid-16th century, derived from the animal's perceived tendency to mimic human behavior.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.